Best Things to Do in Rome Italy

What to visit in Rome? well… that is a good question, with a not so easy answer! As they say , “When in Rome do as Romans do” but… that might not be so easy! Because Rome is often full of tourists, it is difficult to know what locals visit in Rome or even an authentic Italian restaurant in Rome. Then, it is easy to miss Rome’s authentic vibe. But, truly speaking, what are the must sees in Rome? Well… let’s name the best spots to visit in Rome here 🙂

Rome is one of the cities that should be on your bucket list, not just because Italian food is delicious, but because its history goes back in time 3,000 years… Rome is rich in art, architecture and culture!

How to Get Around in Rome?

Moving around in Rome is easy, as you can use a taxi, taxi apps or take the bus (which is safe to do). But, don’t forget that there is a lot of traffic jam in Rome, so do plan ahead! And if you are up for it, walk because many of the monuments are within walking distance from each other.

Rome Must See Attractions List

Rome is certainly one of the cities where you do need to plan ahead, as there is simply too much to see. For that reason, the best to do have an itinerary for Rome and book in advance as much as you can.

You can get a pass called The Roma Pass for 48hrs or 72hrs and that includes local transportation and entry to popular sites.

Please keep in mind that the attractions in Rome mentioned here are not in a particular order, or relevance.

Colosseum

Our recommendation is to wake up early in the morning and go straight to the Colosseum- Rome’s great gladatorial arena, originally named Flavian Amphiteheatre- as this is one of the sites that gets very crowded. You can actually enter the Colosseum in Rome, so we do recommend you to do that, at least once 🙂 For that, the best is to book in advance through the Colosseum website. Otherwise, you can buy tickets from the Palatino entrance, and the best is to visit in the late-afternoon then. For us, this is one of the sites that we enjoy the most, it simply is amazing to see the huge structure and to understand what it used to be in the past.

Palatine Hill or Palatino

The Palatine Hill is the best spot to get amazing views of the Roman Forum. So, don’t miss this archeological site!

Roman Forum

An amazing site in which you can see ruins from the 7th Century! and it is just steps away from the Colosseum!

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona Rome is one of the most beautiful piazzas (squares) in Rome. It really is worth a visit, since it is one of the largest in Rome! Strolling around it is something that you shouldn’t miss!

Pantheon

You probably know this place, if you are a fan of Angels and Demons, as this is were Tom Hanks visits Raphael’s tomb. But, other than fiction… Pantheon Rome is located in the Centro Storico of Rome (historic centre) and was built 2000 years ago.

Pantheon used to be a temple but is now a Church, and it is the architectural site in Rome that has been preserved the best. One of the most interesting things about Pantheon Rome is that it has the largest un-reinforced conrete dome that has ever been built! So, do not miss it, and do not forget to look at the dome!

We were so thirsty and tired from walking in the 32 °C heat that we decided to seat just in front of Pantheon to observe its architecture, but it was the most expensive drink we have ever had! If you are willing to pay an overpriced meal, then sure, go ahead! Otherwise… avoid the surrounding places at all costs!

Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps in Rome

One of the must see attractions in Rome is Piazza di Spagna and its magnificent Spanish Steps, which have been attracting the crowds for 3 Centuries now. You can get there from the top part of the Spanish Steps and descend them to chill at the Piazza, or climb the Spanish Steps in Rome and then see Piazza di Spagna from the top. Either way, it is one of our favorite places in Rome! It is a vivid and lively place!

Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi)

One of Beca’s favorite spots in Rome is the Trevi Fountain, and it is no wonder why! As, it really is one of the most beautiful fountains that we have ever seen, not to mention the largest.

The Trevi Fountain in Rome is the largest baroque piece in Rome and it portrays mythical figures and wild horses. The Trevi Fountain has been shot in multiple films, but one of the most famous scenes is certainly the one from La Dolce Vita. It is said that around 3,000 euros are collected daily from the Trevi Fountain in Rome from all coins that people toss into the Fountain, money which is donated to the Catholic Charity Caritas.

The Trevi Fountain is always packed with people. But, the best moment to visit it is at night, when the crowds have gone to rest. Plus, seeing the Trevi Fountain at night is a magnificent experience! We went at 12am and even then it was quite full…. but seeing the Trevi Fountain at night was beautiful, as it is all lit up, and we even managed to get some photos without many people, and toss our coins without being pushed ha ha… The Fontana di Trevi truly makes you fall in love with it.

Campo de Fiori Rome (The Market at Campo de Fiori Rome)

If you are looking for something more than architectural sites, head to Campo de Fiori, a piazza famous for its food market.

Quirinale Palace

Arrived by mistake and on our way to another landmark, we came across the stunning Quirinale Palace.

One of the largest palaces in the world, Quirinale Palace in Rome serves as one out of many residences for the Italian President.

Castel Sant’Angelo Rome and Ponte Sant’Angelo

A beautiful and historical landmark is the Castel Sant’Angelo in Rome. Its bridge, Ponte Sant’Angelo is not to be missed.

Altar of The Fatherland (Il Vittoriano)

A very nice spot to get some photos is the Altar of the Fatherland, also known as Il Vittoriano It is a huge structure made out of white marble which honours Victor Emmanuel ll, Italy firts king.

Trastevere

Trastevere in Rome is one of the prettiest neighborhoods. It is full of life and colors. Strolling around Trastevere is a unique experience that you should not miss.

Our time in Rome couldn’t have been more pleasant. Travelling in Rome with kids was never easier for us, as Jack enjoyed Rome as much as we did! Rome is one place like no other, just by walking around you get to learn so much about history, art, and so much more! Visiting Rome is like being able time travel to ancient times when the Romans built a magnificent Empire.

And, to be honest there is so much more to Rome than just its historic attractions… food in Rome is also something that you should not miss! That is why we have decided to do a whole new blog on the best food in Rome, as it simply is outstanding! So, our foodie recommendations on where to eat in Rome like a local should be your next read…

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Fun post. I was there about 5 year ago and we were lucky to have a local guide who took us to most of the fun places, unfortunately Trevi Fountain was closed for repairs. She also took us through several winding streets away from the Pantheon and we had some of the best food I’ve ever eaten – along with gelato. Such a fun tour, thanks for the memories.